December Universal Human Rights Month

December 26, 2012

In a month during which we might dwell upon all the things for which we're thankful - family, health and prosperity - perhaps it's also good to think of others - both abroad as well as in our own country - who don't have the same rights and privileges as we do.

December is Universal Human Rights Month - a time to think - and act - about those who don't have the same rights that we do.

And one of the worst human rights abuses of all is human trafficking.

Just a few months ago, police in Iowa and Nebraska uncovered a human trafficking ring in which girls as young as 15 were forced into working as exotic dancers - and even worse, prostitutes. Apparently, some of the girls, who were runaways, sought protection from people who drew them into a fate worse than destitution and homelessness.

Tragically, this is the sort of crime for which society is responsible.

Anyone who knows of something this horrible happening has a moral obligation to contact the closest authorities immediately. When it comes to children this young, there's no such thing as "It's none of my business." It's all of our business. And it's necessary for all of us to act to combat such hideous crimes.

In other parts of the world today, other human rights abuses are occurring. Following are just a few examples: